Barcode Generator
Last updated: 2026-06-25
The Barcode Generator is a free tool that turns text or numbers into a CODE128 1D barcode right in your browser and saves it as PNG.
It auto-calculates the start/stop characters and the check character (modulo 103) per the spec, and auto-compresses numeric runs to Code C. Your input is never sent to a server.
Create a Barcode (CODE128)
This is a CODE128 barcode for internal inventory, invoices, and asset management - not a retail EAN-13/UPC code. Verify it with a real scanner before printing.
How to Use
- Enter content - Type the characters or numbers (ASCII) to encode - a product code, invoice number, and so on.
- Adjust options - Choose the bar width and height, and whether to show the human-readable text.
- Generate and save - Press Generate Barcode to draw the CODE128 barcode, then use Download PNG to save it and print it on a label.
Features of CODE128 Barcodes
CODE128 is a high-density 1D barcode standard that can hold the full ASCII range (uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and symbols). It packs a lot of information into a small area, so it is widely used in logistics, inventory, and asset management. This tool uses Code Set B by default and automatically switches to Code C when four or more digits appear in a row, compressing two digits into a single cell.
| Aspect | CODE128 barcode | QR code |
|---|---|---|
| Dimension | 1D (bars) | 2D (grid) |
| Characters | ASCII 32-126 | Unicode (incl. non-Latin, emoji) |
| Capacity | A few dozen characters | Hundreds to thousands |
| Error correction | One check character | Reed-Solomon (level M ~15%) |
| Main use | Inventory, invoices, labels | URLs, payments, cards, WiFi |
If you need non-Latin text, a long URL, or WiFi credentials, use the QR Code Generator or the WiFi QR Generator. The criteria for choosing each code type are covered in more detail in the How to Use QR Codes guide.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What barcode standard does this tool create?
It generates the CODE128 standard (Code Set B by default, with numeric runs auto-compressed to Code C). CODE128 can hold the full ASCII range - uppercase and lowercase letters, digits, and symbols - which makes it the most widely used standard for logistics, inventory, and industrial labels. The start/stop characters and check character (modulo 103) are calculated automatically per the spec.
Can I make a barcode with non-Latin characters?
CODE128 supports only ASCII characters (32-126), so non-Latin scripts cannot be encoded. To store non-Latin text, long URLs, or WiFi credentials, use a 2D QR code instead. The QR Code Generator on this site can encode Unicode and emoji.
Can I create EAN-13 (retail) barcodes or ISBN?
This tool is CODE128 only. Retail EAN-13/UPC codes sold in stores have their own system with country codes and check-digit rules, so this tool does not generate them. For internal inventory, invoice, and asset management barcodes, CODE128 is a good fit.
What should I check if my barcode will not scan?
Leave enough margin (a quiet zone, about 10 times the bar width) on both sides, and do not print the bars too thin. Contrast matters, so keep black bars on a white background, and check for blur or smudging after printing.
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Last updated: 2026-06-25